Easy Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

This Honey Glazed Ham creates a stunning centerpiece with caramelized glaze, tender meat, and warm spices. Simple to make, perfect for any celebration.

Honey Glazed Ham Recipe
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When the holidays roll around, there’s one dish that never fails to steal the show: a perfectly cooked honey glazed ham.

The combination of sweet honey, warm spices, and tender meat creates a centerpiece that brings everyone to the table with anticipation.

I’ve made this Honey Glazed Ham countless times over the years, and it always delivers.

The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, forming a glossy, slightly crunchy coating that contrasts wonderfully with the moist ham underneath.

What I love most about this recipe is how it looks like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, it’s surprisingly straightforward.

The ham is already fully cooked, so you’re really just heating it through and building up that gorgeous glaze.

Quick Recipe Summary

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 15 minutes
Servings12-14 servings
Difficulty LevelEasy
Easy Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Honey Glazed Ham

This isn’t just another ham recipe. It’s the kind of dish that makes your house smell like the holidays and gets everyone asking for seconds.

The glaze strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. The honey provides natural sweetness, while the Dijon mustard adds a subtle sharpness that prevents it from being cloying.

Here’s what makes this recipe special:

  • Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these in your pantry already
  • Foolproof method: Hard to mess up since the ham is pre-cooked
  • Impressive presentation: The caramelized glaze looks restaurant-quality
  • Feeds a crowd: One ham serves 12-14 people generously
  • Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance
  • Versatile for holidays: Works for Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or any celebration

The spices in the glaze add warmth without overpowering the ham. Cinnamon and cloves are classic holiday flavors that complement the meat beautifully.

Ingredients for Honey Glazed Ham

This recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients that work together to create that beautiful caramelized coating.

The base is a bone-in ham, which stays juicier and more flavorful than boneless varieties.

For a dessert that pairs beautifully with this savory main course, try my Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes this recipe even easier. You don’t need anything fancy, just a few basic items that help you get the job done efficiently.

I’ve tested this recipe with various products over the years, and these are the ones that consistently deliver the best results. They make the cooking process smoother and help you achieve that perfect honey-glazed finish.

1. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Roasting Pan

This roasting pan distributes heat so evenly that your ham cooks uniformly without any dry spots.

The heavy construction prevents warping at high temperatures, and the enamel coating makes cleanup effortless even with sticky glaze. I’ve had mine for over a decade, and it still looks new.

Get it on Amazon

2. ThermoPro Digital Meat Thermometer

Taking the guesswork out of cooking times is crucial for a perfect ham.

This instant-read thermometer gives you accurate readings in seconds, so you’ll know exactly when your ham reaches the ideal internal temperature. It’s saved me from overcooking more times than I can count.

Get it on Amazon

3. Raw Unfiltered Honey

The quality of your honey makes a noticeable difference in the final glaze. Raw, unfiltered honey has a richer, more complex flavor than processed varieties.

It caramelizes beautifully and adds depth to the glaze that you can really taste.

Get it on Amazon

4. Silicone Basting Brush Set

Unlike traditional bristle brushes, silicone brushes don’t shed or absorb bacteria. They’re perfect for applying the glaze evenly, and they hold up to repeated exposure to hot ovens.

The angled design helps you reach all the nooks and crannies of the ham.

Get it on Amazon

Another festive favorite: Classic Roast Turkey Recipe.

Easy Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Honey Glazed Ham

Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly glazed ham that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Each step builds on the previous one, so take your time and enjoy the process.

1. Prepare the Ham

  • Remove the ham from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking
  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C)
  • Line your roasting pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup
  • Place the roasting rack inside the pan
  • Unwrap the ham and place it cut-side down on the rack
  • If your ham has a thick layer of skin, use a sharp knife to score it in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep
  • If you’re using whole cloves for decoration, press them into the center of each diamond where the cuts intersect
  • Tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil, making sure the foil doesn’t touch the surface of the meat

2. Make the Honey Glaze

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar
  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk the ingredients together until smooth
  • Add the ground cinnamon and ground cloves, stirring to incorporate
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent burning
  • Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sugar has completely dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly
  • Remove from heat and set aside (the glaze will thicken more as it cools)
  • If the glaze becomes too thick before you need it, gently reheat it on low heat

3. Begin Roasting

  • Place the foil-tented ham in the preheated oven
  • Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (calculate about 10-12 minutes per pound)
  • During this initial roasting period, the ham will heat through evenly
  • The foil prevents the outside from drying out while the inside warms up
  • Don’t open the oven door frequently, as this lets heat escape and extends cooking time
  • Set a timer so you remember when to start glazing

For a complete holiday spread, serve this alongside my Prime Rib Roast Recipe.

4. Apply the First Layer of Glaze

  • After the initial roasting time, carefully remove the ham from the oven
  • Remove and discard the aluminum foil tent
  • Using your pastry brush, generously brush about one-third of the glaze all over the surface of the ham
  • Make sure to get the glaze into the scored diamond cuts if you made them
  • Pay extra attention to the top and sides where the glaze will caramelize most beautifully
  • Return the uncovered ham to the oven
  • Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C)

5. Build Up the Glaze Layers

  • After 15 minutes, remove the ham and brush on another third of the glaze
  • The glaze should be starting to stick and caramelize on the surface
  • Return the ham to the oven and roast for another 15 minutes
  • Remove once more and apply the remaining glaze, ensuring complete coverage
  • At this point, the ham should be developing a beautiful golden-brown color
  • Return to the oven for a final 15-20 minutes
  • Watch carefully during this final stage to prevent burning
  • The glaze should be bubbling and caramelized, forming a gorgeous crust

6. Check for Doneness and Rest

  • Insert your meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone
  • The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham
  • If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue roasting in 10-minute increments, checking regularly
  • Once the ham reaches temperature, remove it from the oven
  • Tent it loosely with fresh aluminum foil and let it rest for 15-20 minutes
  • During this resting period, the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender
  • The internal temperature will continue to rise by about 5 degrees while resting
  • Transfer the ham to a cutting board or serving platter

7. Carve and Serve

  • Use a sharp carving knife to slice the ham
  • For a bone-in ham, start by cutting slices perpendicular to the bone
  • Cut slices about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for the best texture
  • As you reach the bone, cut horizontally along it to release the slices
  • Arrange the slices on a warm serving platter
  • Drizzle any pan juices or remaining glaze over the sliced ham
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if desired
  • Serve immediately while the ham is still warm and the glaze is glossy

You might also enjoy: Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

Tips for The Best Honey Glazed Ham

These tried-and-true tips will help you achieve perfect results every time you make this recipe. I’ve learned these lessons through years of making holiday hams.

  • Choose the right ham: Look for a bone-in, fully cooked ham for the best flavor and texture. Spiral-cut hams work great because the glaze seeps into the cuts.
  • Don’t skip the resting period: Letting the ham rest after cooking is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute and makes carving much easier.
  • Watch the glaze carefully: The sugars in the glaze can burn quickly once the temperature increases. Check the ham every 10-15 minutes during the final glazing stages.
  • Use a meat thermometer: This is the only reliable way to know when your ham is perfectly heated through without overcooking it.
  • Save the drippings: The pan drippings mixed with any leftover glaze make an incredible sauce. Pour them into a small pitcher and serve alongside the ham.
  • Tent properly: When tenting with foil, make sure it’s loose and doesn’t touch the ham surface. This prevents sticking and allows air circulation.
  • Room temperature matters: Taking the ham out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking helps it cook more evenly throughout.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Glazed Ham

This honey glazed ham is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with both classic and creative side dishes.

The sweet and savory flavors complement a wide range of accompaniments.

Serve your ham with these delicious options:

Read Also: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Variations of Honey Glazed Ham

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these creative variations to change up the flavors. Each one brings something unique to the table.

  • Maple-Bourbon Glaze: Replace the honey with pure maple syrup and add 2 tablespoons of bourbon for a sophisticated twist.
  • Orange-Honey Glaze: Add the zest and juice of 2 oranges to the glaze for a citrusy brightness that complements the ham beautifully.
  • Pineapple-Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix in 1/2 cup crushed pineapple and reduce the honey by half for a tropical variation.
  • Spicy-Sweet Glaze: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick that balances the sweetness.
  • Herb-Infused Glaze: Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an earthy, aromatic flavor.
  • Asian-Inspired Glaze: Replace the Dijon mustard with hoisin sauce and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and fresh ginger.
  • Cherry-Glazed Ham: Add 1/2 cup of cherry preserves to the glaze for a fruity, festive flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage keeps your ham fresh and delicious for days after the initial meal. Leftover ham is incredibly versatile and can be used in countless recipes.

Storage:

  • Let the ham cool completely before storing (within 2 hours of cooking)
  • Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place in an airtight container
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
  • For longer storage, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
  • Label frozen ham with the date so you remember when you stored it
  • Thaw frozen ham overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Reheating:

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C)
  • Place ham slices in a baking dish and cover with foil
  • Add a splash of water, broth, or leftover glaze to prevent drying
  • Heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through
  • For individual servings, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals
  • You can also reheat slices in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little butter

For a cozy morning after the holiday feast, try my Vanilla Overnight Oats Recipe.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional information per 4-ounce serving of honey glazed ham:

  • Calories: 280
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 1,450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Sugars: 17g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Iron: 1.2mg
  • Potassium: 340mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific ham you purchase and how much glaze each serving includes.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While ham is certainly an indulgent dish, several ingredients in this recipe offer nutritional benefits. Understanding what each component brings to the table helps you appreciate the meal even more.

Honey:

  • Contains antioxidants that support overall health
  • Has antimicrobial properties that may boost immunity
  • Provides quick energy from natural sugars
  • Contains trace minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium

Ham:

  • Excellent source of high-quality protein for muscle maintenance
  • Rich in B vitamins, especially B12, which supports nerve function
  • Contains selenium, an important antioxidant mineral
  • Provides zinc for immune system support

Apple Cider Vinegar:

  • May help regulate blood sugar levels
  • Contains beneficial probiotics when unfiltered
  • Aids in digestion
  • Has antimicrobial properties

Cinnamon:

  • Packed with antioxidants that fight inflammation
  • May help lower blood sugar levels
  • Contains compounds with anti-inflammatory effects
  • Supports heart health

Cloves:

  • One of the most antioxidant-rich spices
  • Has antimicrobial properties
  • May support liver health
  • Contains compounds that aid digestion

Another crowd-pleasing main dish: Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe.

Easy Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

FAQs About Honey Glazed Ham

1. Can I use a boneless ham instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can absolutely use a boneless ham for this recipe. The cooking time will be slightly shorter, so reduce it by about 10-15 minutes per pound.

Boneless hams are easier to carve but tend to be a bit less flavorful than bone-in versions.

2. How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

The key is to start glazing only after the ham has already heated through.

Apply the glaze in layers during the final 45 minutes of cooking, and watch it carefully during the last 15 minutes when the oven temperature is higher.

If you notice the glaze getting too dark, tent the ham loosely with foil.

3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! The glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before brushing it onto the ham, as it will thicken considerably when cold.

4. What should I do with leftover ham?

Leftover ham is incredibly versatile. Dice it and add it to scrambled eggs, omelets, or quiches for breakfast.

Use it in sandwiches, soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes. You can also freeze cubed ham in portion-sized bags for up to 2 months and use it whenever you need it.

5. Do I need to score the ham before glazing?

Scoring is optional but recommended. It creates more surface area for the glaze to caramelize and adds an attractive diamond pattern.

If you’re short on time or your ham is already spiral-cut, you can skip this step and still achieve delicious results.

Read Also: Gingerbread Truffles Recipe

Conclusion

This Honey Glazed Ham has been a staple at my holiday table for years, and it never disappoints.

The balance of sweet honey, tangy mustard, and warm spices creates a flavor profile that everyone loves.

The best part is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience while the glaze caramelizes, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece that looks like it came from a professional kitchen.

I hope this recipe becomes a tradition in your home the way it has in mine. There’s something special about gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing good food and making memories.

Give this Honey Glazed Ham a try for your next holiday gathering or special occasion. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you.

Drop a comment below with your experience, or share a photo of your beautiful glazed ham. Happy cooking.

Easy Honey Glazed Ham Recipe

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